Thoughts by Dr. Steven Bruns

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Psalm 77 and Repentance

Psalm 77 is another psalm about repentance. This time, though, we get more of the feeling people have when they know they are separated from God. This is the kind of emotional and spiritual anguish people experience when they have been in fellowship with God and then fall away because of sin.

Again, the key to even desiring a renewed relationship with God is the remembrance that God has done mighty things in the past to bring people into relationship with him. Therefore, if we are sincere about wanting to return to a right relationship with God after sinning, God will make it happen just as sure as he delivered the Israelites out of Egypt.

I cry out loud to God—out loud to God so that he can hear me!2 During the day when I’m in trouble I look for my Lord.At night my hands are still outstretched and don’t grow numb;my whole being refuses to be comforted.3 I remember God and I moan.I complain, and my spirit grows tired. Selah

4 You’ve kept my eyelids from closing.I’m so upset I can’t even speak.5 I think about days long past;I remember years that seem an eternity in the past.6 I meditate with my heart at night;I complain, and my spirit keeps searching:7 “Will my Lord reject me forever?Will he never be pleased again?8 Has his faithful love come to a complete end?Is his promise over for future generations?9 Has God forgotten how to be gracious?Has he angrily stopped up his compassion?” Selah10 It’s my misfortune, I thought,that the strong hand of the Most High is different now.

11 But I will remember the Lord’s deeds;yes, I will remember your wondrous acts from times long past.12 I will meditate on all your works;I will ponder your deeds.13 God, your way is holiness!Who is as great a god as you, God?14 You are the God who works wonders;you have demonstrated your strength among all peoples.15 With your mighty arm you redeemed your people;redeemed the children of Jacob and Joseph. Selah

16 The waters saw you, God—the waters saw you and reeled!Even the deep depths shook!17 The clouds poured water,the skies cracked thunder;your arrows were flying all around!18 The crash of your thunder was in the swirling storm;lightning lit up the whole world;the earth shook and quaked.19 Your way went straight through the sea;your pathways went right through the mighty waters.But your footprints left no trace!20 You led your people like sheepunder the care of Moses and Aaron.

Take heart. Whatever you have done in your past, God can bring you back to himself. It is all his love and grace, and it is freely available for all of us, no matter who we are.